Wilkes County Register of Deeds serves as the official record keeper for all legal documents related to property, vital records, and public filings in Wilkes County, North Carolina. The office maintains real-estate deeds, deeds of trust, powers of attorney, assumed business names, subdivision plats, separation agreements, foreclosure notices, and vital records including birth, death, and marriage certificates. It also archives notary public oaths, military discharge paperwork, and other registry documents. Since July 1, 2017, the office has operated an online portal allowing users to search the index and request PDF copies for a small fee. A major digitization project began in 2022, scanning historical files into a secure cloud archive with new batches added monthly. The physical office is located at 500 Courthouse Drive, Suite 1000, Wilkesboro, NC 28697, and can be reached at (336) 651-7351 during normal business hours.
Office Location and Contact Information
The Wilkes County Register of Deeds is housed in the historic courthouse complex at 500 Courthouse Drive, Suite 1000, Wilkesboro, NC 28697. This central location places it near key county services, including the Wilkes County Library and courthouse. The office operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:55 p.m., with limited evening appointments available during peak filing periods such as spring mortgage season. Visitors can reach the office by phone at (336) 651-7351 or by fax at (336) 990-0041. The GPS coordinates for the building are 36.094218 latitude and -81.158181 longitude, making it easy to locate using navigation apps.
Services Provided by the Register of Deeds
The office offers a wide range of services to the public, including issuing certified copies of recorded documents, confirming lien status, accepting electronic filings, and processing marriage license applications. Staff led by senior clerk Misty M. Smithey handles approximately 1,200 transactions each month, supporting an annual volume of about 15,000 recorded instruments. The e-filing portal now processes 40% of all new entries, reducing wait times and improving efficiency. Certified copies can be requested in person, by phone, or through the online portal for a fee. The office also provides document verification for title companies, attorneys, and real estate professionals.
Online Portal and Digital Access
Since 2017, the Wilkes County Register of Deeds has offered an online portal for searching and requesting public records. Users can search by name, parcel number, or document type to view indexed information and request PDF copies. Each page costs $2.50, and payments are processed securely through the portal. The digitization effort launched in 2022 has already scanned thousands of historical documents, with new batches added every month. These records are stored in an encrypted cloud archive protected by two-factor authentication. This ensures both accessibility and security for sensitive legal documents.
Document Types Recorded
The Register of Deeds records many types of legal instruments. These include real-estate deeds, deeds of trust, powers of attorney, assumed business names, subdivision plats, separation agreements, and foreclosure notices. Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates are also maintained, though some may require additional verification for release. The office also keeps notary public oaths, military discharge records (DD-214), and other registry documents. Each document is indexed by date, grantor, grantee, and legal description to ensure accurate retrieval.
Marriage License Services
Applying for a marriage license in Wilkes County requires both parties to appear in person at the Register of Deeds office. Valid photo identification and proof of residency are required. If either party has been previously married, documentation of divorce or annulment must be provided. The application is available online through the state-approved form, but it must be completed, signed, and submitted in person. Misty M. Smithey oversees all marriage license transactions and can verify application status during business hours. Licenses are typically issued the same day if all requirements are met.
Security and Data Protection
Protecting public records is a top priority. The office uses two-factor authentication for staff access and encrypted storage for all digital files. Nightly backups ensure data is never lost. Physical documents are stored in secure, climate-controlled areas to prevent deterioration. Only authorized personnel can access sensitive records, and all requests for certified copies are logged. These measures comply with North Carolina’s Open Records Act while safeguarding personal information.
Community Outreach and Public Engagement
The Wilkes County Register of Deeds maintains an active Facebook page with over 850 followers. The page shares updates on workshops, system maintenance, digitization progress, and seasonal filing tips. Staff regularly post downloadable forms for deeds, powers of attorney, and marriage licenses. Users can message the page for help with filing requirements. This direct line of communication builds trust and keeps residents informed about changes in procedures or fees.
Staff and Leadership
Misty M. Smithey has served as the Register of Deeds since 2004. She leads a team that includes senior clerks and records technicians responsible for daily operations, indexing, and customer service. The staff is trained in North Carolina recording laws and electronic filing standards. Quarterly updates to the staff directory ensure accurate contact information is available to the public. All employees follow strict protocols to maintain the integrity of the public record.
Public Records Requests
Individuals seeking specific documents can submit requests online or by calling the central line at (336) 651-7300. The Public Records division, located at 110 North Street, Wilkesboro, NC 28697, processes land records, court filings, and vital statistics. Most requests are fulfilled within ten business days. Records are provided in PDF format for electronic delivery or as hard copies for a small duplication fee. The office follows state law to ensure transparency while protecting exempt information.
Property Records Search
The CountyOffice portal provides free access to basic property records for Wilkes County. Users can search by parcel number, owner name, or address to retrieve deeds, mortgages, tax liens, and plats. Each record includes the recording date, document type, and a downloadable PDF. The database updates nightly, so newly recorded instruments appear within 24 hours. Detailed reports cost $5.00 per query. This service supports real estate professionals, title companies, and private researchers.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees for services vary by document type and request method. Certified copies cost $2.50 per page. Marriage license applications have a standard fee set by state law. Electronic filings may include a small processing charge. Payments are accepted in cash, check, or credit card. Rush service is available for an additional $15.00 when documents must be recorded within 24 hours. All fees are posted publicly and updated as needed to reflect state regulations.
Digitization Project Progress
The digitization project that began in 2022 has made significant progress. Historical deeds, plats, and vital records are being scanned and uploaded to a secure cloud archive. New batches are added monthly, with priority given to frequently requested documents. This effort improves access for researchers and reduces wear on original paper files. The project is expected to continue for several years, with funding allocated annually by the county board.
Cross-State Compliance and Georgia Branch
While the primary office is in North Carolina, a separate Wilkes County exists in Georgia. The Georgia branch, located at 23 East Court Street, Washington, GA 30673, is managed by the Clerk of Superior Court. It records deeds, mortgages, and security agreements with fees set at $25.00 per document since 2020. Payments can be made by cash, check, or credit card. This office operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be reached at (706) 678-2423.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I request a certified copy of a deed?
You can request a certified copy in person at the office, by phone at (336) 651-7351, or through the online portal. Each page costs $2.50. You’ll need the property address or parcel number to locate the correct document.
Can I file documents electronically?
Yes, the e-filing portal handles about 40% of new entries. Attorneys, title companies, and lenders can submit deeds, mortgages, and liens online. The system confirms receipt and updates the index within one business day.
Are birth and death certificates available here?
Yes, but access is restricted. Immediate family members or legal representatives can request certified copies with valid ID. Some records may require approval from the state vital records office.
What are the office hours?
The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:55 p.m. Limited evening appointments are available during peak times like spring mortgage season. Call ahead to schedule.
How long does it take to process a marriage license?
If all documents are in order, licenses are issued the same day. Both parties must appear in person with photo ID and proof of residency. Divorce papers are required if applicable.
Is the online portal secure?
Yes. The portal uses encryption and two-factor authentication. Personal information is protected, and all transactions are logged for security.
Where can I find subdivision plats?
Subdivision plats are available through the online portal or in person. Search by subdivision name or lot number. PDF copies can be downloaded for a small fee.
Official website: https://www.wilkescounty.net/268/Register-of-Deeds
Phone: (336) 651-7351
Address: 500 Courthouse Drive, Suite 1000, Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:55 p.m.